Page 4

4
should already possess works that would be monuments to future generations
of the rapid progress of the arts in the present age; and posterity would
have seen, that female genius was not behind-hand in improving them. I here
cannot help observing how celebrated and exalted a proof of the powers of
female genius is displayed in the works of the Marchioness of Buckingham;
it is much to be regretted such instances are not more frequent. I doubt
whether our exhibitions will shew many works more distinguished by their
merit, than some pictures painted by her ladyship, which adorn the apartments
at Stow.
I shall now proceed to lay down such instructions as will be extremely easy
for any lady to follow, and which, by practice alone, may enable her to arrive
at proficiency. To such as wish to make the most rapid progress, a master
will be useful; but as this work is intended for general use and information,
every lady who wishes to amuse herself in painting, will find, in these instructions,
every difficulty entirely removed; and I will venture to affirm, that a competent
knowledge of the art may be obtained from this New Work, without any further
assistance.
But before I proceed, it is necessary I should point out an evil to be avoided,
which is created under the idea of removing one. Every lady who wishes to
learn to paint, furnishes herself with a box of colours; which frequently
contains from twenty to forty different cakes.